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A large blaze which engulfed the former Convent of Mercy in Downpatrick was started deliberately, the fire service of Northern Ireland has said.
Around 70 firefighters battled the fire in Downpatrick from 7pm on Sunday evening until 7am Monday, using breathing apparatus, firefighting jets and two aerial ladder jets, supported by 10 appliances from towns as far afield as Newtownards, a Command Support Unit from Lisburn and a water tanker from Warrenpoint.
“The cause is believed to be deliberate,” a spokesperson for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service said.
South Down MLA Colin McGrath of the SDLP said: “It’s really sad to see the former convent in Downpatrick on fire.
“Although it’s been lying derelict for some time, it’s still one of those buildings that people in the town know well, and it’s difficult to watch it being lost like this.
“Many local people will have memories of the convent and the role it played over the years. Even in recent times it has remained a familiar part of the Downpatrick skyline, so seeing it go up in flames is upsetting.
“I want to pay tribute to the firefighters and all of the emergency services who have responded so quickly to what is clearly a significant incident. Their professionalism and bravery in dealing with situations like this should never be taken for granted.
“My thoughts are also with those living and working nearby who will understandably have been concerned as the fire developed.”
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